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1. Where can I find more information about drinking water home treatment units?

CVWD does not endorse or recommend specific home water treatment units. If, however, you are considering buying a home treatment device because of health concerns (e.g. you have a severely compromised immune system), make sure that the device is certified by the State Water Resources Control Board.

For additional help in picking a unit, visit NSF International, an independent non-profit organization.

2. My water has a different taste and/or odor. Is it safe to drink?

Water may look or smell different, between communities, and still be safe; even when water meets California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards, you may still object to its taste, smell, or appearance. Your water is tested regularly for bacteriological content. Compounds such as iron, manganese, and other sediments may give your water the appearance of being “dirty” without affecting its microbiological quality. If you feel there is a problem with your water, contact CVWD right away to discuss any concerns.

3. Do I need to flush out my hot water heater?

If you notice white particles that clog plumbing fixtures, they may be bits of calcium carbonate scale coming from your water heater. The scaling may be worsened because the water heater thermostat is too high. If the particles are calcium carbonate, you probably need to flush your water heater. Many manufacturers recommend periodic flushing of water heaters to remove sediment that can build up. The sediment can cause discoloration of the water and can make the water heater less efficient. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s owners guide for your hot water heater.

4. Why does my water smell septic?

Bacteria growing in sink drains can generate odors. Although, the odors seem to be coming from the water; the odor is really coming from the drain. When water runs down the drain, the odor is forced out where you can smell it.

A cup of household bleach poured down the drain will help kill the bacteria and take care of the septic smell. Hot water heaters can also harbor bacteria that cause odors. If your sink drain is not the source, check your hot water for odor.

5. My water smells like chlorine, why is chlorine added?

Chlorine is added to tap water to make sure that any harmful germs in the water are killed. When you can taste or smell a bit of chlorine, your water has been properly treated.

If you taste or smell chlorine in your water and consider it unpleasant, you can purchase a point of use treatment unit to remove the taste of chlorine. Consumers interested in a point of use water treatment device should "shop around" first. Carefully read the product information to understand what you are buying before purchasing. No single device takes out every kind of drinking water contaminant; you must decide which type best meets your needs. Once purchased, be certain to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for operation and maintenance, especially changing the filter on a regular basis.